Avoid These Mistakes When Buying a Home in the Flathead Valley

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Looking to sell in the Flathead Valley? Get a free Home Price Evaluation

As a local real estate professional, I frequently see buyers make three common mistakes. These mistakes can easily be avoided if they’re identified ahead of time! Don’t make the same ones.

1. Not getting pre-qualified for a loan. Understanding what you can afford is huge in the buying process. Many people struggle with this especially. Work with a quality lender and know your target price range. 
2. Not getting a home inspection. This can be easily done before you even list. Time is crucial and it’s rewarding to address and resolve repairs as soon as possible. A private contractor can help you do this efficiently and quickly. Play it safe!
3. Not knowing your market. If you’re not familiar with the local market, hire a Realtor to help you. It’s important to understand what homes are selling for. That’s how you effectively, competitively price your home and earn top dollar. Examine the differences and know real estate in the surrounding area.

If you have any questions about this topic or anything else real estate related, reach out to me today! I’m happy to help serve your real estate needs in the Flathead Valley.

How to Handle a Multiple Offer Situation as a Home Buyer

Looking to buy in the Flathead Valley? Get a full Home Search 
Looking to sell in the Flathead Valley? Get a free Home Price Evaluation

If you’re a home buyer in the Flathead Valley, you might find yourself in a multiple offer situation. Homes in the $300,000 and under range move quickly. It’s the most popular price range in our area. Buyers are outnumbering the amount of properties available. However, there are a few ways to make yourself stand out as a potential buyer.

Be a cash buyer or pre-qualified for a loan. Sellers want to know from the start you can successfully finance a home. Often, deals don’t work out because of financing. Bring a pre-qualification letter if you plan on getting a loan.

Minimize contingencies if possible. Make sure your dates and circumstances are reasonable to the sellers. If not, it could break the deal entirely.

Ensure the property is the home you want. Before you expend the energy, think about how committed you are to this home. It should be the one you want! Put your best foot forward and make the best offer you can. If it’s meant to be, it will be.

If you’re thinking about buying a home this year, send me an email or give me a call. Let’s talk about it!

Avoid these Four Mistakes When Selling Your Home in the Flathead Valley

Looking to buy in the Flathead Valley? Get a full Home Search 
Looking to sell in the Flathead Valley? Get a free Home Price Evaluation

A lot of things can go wrong in a real estate transaction, and today I'd like to speak about four specific things that you need to be careful to avoid.

Not having professional photos of your home is a huge mistake. When your main source of attention from buyers is on the Internet, your photos have to be outstanding in order to stand up against other listings online.

You also need to get as much exposure as possible. If your agent doesn't have a complete marketing plan, then you're going to have more difficulty selling your home quickly and for top dollar.

Not using a real estate agent is another thing that could land you in hot water. It's been proven that when you hire an agent, your home will sell quickly and for more money. In fact, homes sold by their owners sold for 13% less than when people hired a real estate agent.

Mispricing your home is another thing that can kill your real estate deal. Your price is your #1 piece of marketing and advertising, so you have to get it right the first time. Buyers are savvy and they know whether or not they're getting a good deal.

If you need help buying or selling a home, please don't hesitate to contact me!